Myths of withdrawal method

Apr. 04, 2015, 6:00 am

By LOVE MATTERS

Myths of withdrawal method

“Withdrawal”, “pulling out”, “pull and pray”, “coitus interruptus” – there are many terms for this contraceptive method, but there are also many myths surrounding its use. Love Matters lays down facts about this most ancient form of contraception.

MYTH 1: WITHDRAWAL PREVENTS PREGNANCY

Withdrawal method is withdrawing the penis from the vagina before orgasm so that ejaculation occurs outside instead of within the woman’s vagina. When used correctly, the pulling out method still results in pregnancy for four out of every 100 women using it as a method of birth control. For those who haven’t yet mastered the art of pulling out just in time, 27 out of every 100 women become pregnant each year. And even if a man pulls out in time, pregnancy may still occur, as pre-ejaculate, or pre-cum, can pick up enough sperm left in the urethra from previous ejaculations to cause an unwanted pregnancy.

MYTH 2: WITHDRAWAL IS EASY

Withdrawal might sound like a simple manouvre but in practice it is not so easy – especially for beginners. Using the withdrawal method takes practice and communication between partners. It’s always good to use an alternative, more reliable form of contraception so that you do not put yourself at risk of an unwanted pregnancy.

MYTH 3: MEN CAN BE TRUSTED

Couples who possess great self-control, experience and trust can use the withdrawal method effectively; but if any of these three elements is missing, it would be best to use an alternative method of birth control. Men using withdrawal must be able to tell exactly when they are about to orgasm, and to pull out in time before they cum inside their partner. Thus, withdrawal is not the best option for teens, sexually inexperienced men or those who ejaculate prematurely.

MYTH 4: ONLY THE IRRESPONSIBLE USE WITHDRAWAL

A recent US national survey found that five per cent of couples in the US rely exclusively on withdrawal as a method of birth control, while 60 per cent of women aged 15-44 have used it at some point in their lives. In short, people of all ages use withdrawal to prevent pregnancy.

MYTH 5: YOU WON’T CONTRACT STDS

Nope, the pulling out method in fact exposes you completely to the risk of sexually transmitted diseases or STDs. Wearing condoms – male or female – is the best way to protect yourself from STDs.